Tips for Defensive Driving

Nobody gets into a car planning to be in an accident in which they will sustain serious injuries. Despite the fact that most people do their best to drive safely, accidents happen, which means that it’s important to know some of the ways that you can drive defensively. Defensive driving isn’t about being rude, it’s about knowing which precautions to take as you drive so that you can avoid accidents. Keep reading today’s post to learn our tips for defensive driving.

Wellspring Health in Dayton provides the expert chiropractic care that you need to relieve pain from any number of causes. Whether you have pain due to an old sports injury, a recent fall, or a car accident, we can help. Our chiropractic office is staffed with doctors who are also experienced in treating patients suffering with symptoms of whiplash. No matter what may be the cause of your pain, contact our office today and schedule a chiropractic adjustment to get the relief you need.

Know Where Dangers Lie

Depending on a number of factors, including the road, the time of day, and even the time of year, there are particular places that you should be careful to drive a little more cautiously so that you can avoid an accident. Locations that see frequent braking, including sharp curves, pedestrian crosswalks, and bus stops tend to be more slippery, which can be dangerous when the road isn’t dry. Other areas such as bridges, tunnels, and entrances and exits near overpasses are safer when you adjust your speed to prepare for oncoming traffic.

Keep Proper Distance

Keeping the proper distance between your car and the vehicle in front of you will allow for plenty of room when you need to slow down stop. Riding too close to their bumper could result in an accident in which you would be at fault. When road conditions aren’t ideal due to the weather, make sure to increase your distance to allow for longer braking times. Having to slam on your brakes isn’t good for the brake pads or your neck.

Look Further Ahead

While you always want to keep an eye on the car in front of you, it’s a good idea to make sure to keep an eye on the traffic ahead of you as well. Looking at the cars at least four to five vehicles ahead will allow you the opportunity to see if you need to prepare to brake or even change lanes to avoid an accident. Don’t rely on the person in front of you to be glancing ahead, take charge of your own safety.

Check the Road

While we don’t experience the dangers that snow and ice bring to other areas, there are still hazards posed by the rainy weather in Florida. Whether it’s the first rain of the season or the first rain storm after a dry spell, it’s important to drive more cautiously. It may not be obvious to the naked eye, but there is typically a build-up of oil and other products that can create slippery road conditions. Additionally, there are times when there is enough water on the surface of the road to create the ideal environment for hydroplaning — something you definitely want to avoid!

Prepare for Others’ Mistakes

Part of driving defensively means that you don’t assume that others will be courteous drivers. From running red lights to driving too closely, there are many things that other drivers can do to put your safety at risk. Don’t assume that drivers will let you change lanes just because you need to. Plan on giving yourself plenty of time before your exit to get to the lane you need. Look twice before driving on a green light in case someone is driving through on red. Just because you have the right of way does not mean that you are free from the danger caused by others’ mistakes.

Utilize Technology

There are a number of ways in which technology can be used to keep your car’s performance at its peak. If you struggle to remember when it’s time to change your oil, check your tire pressure, or any other car maintenance items, look for apps that will help you to manage all of this. The more attention you give to making sure that your car is taken care of, the better it will perform and keep you safe.

At Wellspring Health, we have treated many patients who are suffering from symptoms of whiplash. We know what to look for and the best ways to address the source of your pain. If you have been in a car accident and are struggling with neck pain, back pain, or other discomforts, then please call our office in Daytona to schedule a chiropractic adjustment. Don’t continue to struggle with your pain, let us help you find the relief you need.